Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive disorder in which the body produces abnormally thick, sticky mucus that accumulates in the internal organs, especially the lungs and digestive system, leading to frequent respiratory infections, breathing difficulties and poor digestion.

If you have just received a diagnosis there is help and support available - please see ‘Further information and support’ below for links to valuable resources. It is also important to note that not every person with this condition experiences all the symptoms described and it is worth talking to your doctor or other relevant healthcare specialists to discuss you or your family member’s individual case.

This disorder is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene responsible for controlling the movement of salt in the body. As a result, the body produces thick, sticky mucus which accumulates in the lungs, digestive system and other internal organs causing infections and inflammation and progressive lung damage.

There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis but a lot of research has and continues to be done to develop new and effective treatments. Available treatments address existing complications and try to prevent future ones and include: chest physiotherapy; taking antibiotics, inhalation treatments, and anti-inflammatory medication; having enriched diets and taking enzyme tablets with food to aid digestion.

Advances in research and medical treatments have enhanced and extended life for children and adults with cystic fibrosis. Though the condition can sometimes be fatal in childhood, many people with the disorder now live into their 20s, 30s, and 40s.

Cystic fibrosis can be diagnosed using a sweat test (individuals with the disorder have an increased amount of salt in their sweat), or through genetic testing.

In the UK, all newborn babies are screened for cystic fibrosis using a heel-prick test to sample blood. It is also possible to have prenatal testing and carrier testing for cystic fibrosis.

Over 1000 mutations have been identified that can cause cystic fibrosis, however a specific set of only 6-8 mutations have been found to detect approximately 98% of cases of cystic fibrosis in Ashkenazi Jews.

This is the UK’s only national charity dedicated to all aspects of Cystic Fibrosis (CF). It funds research to treat and cure CF and is dedicated to ensuring appropriate clinical care and support for people with CF. It provides many services including a helpline, publications and welfare grants. This site also contains a forum for patient and carer support and information.

This organisation aims to provide education, training, supplies, and resources to all parts of the world affected by CF so as to improve the quality of life of those affected by the disease. It has 52 member countries.